The maneuvers presented in this chapter require more finesse and understanding of the helicopter and the surrounding environment. When performing these maneuvers, you will probably be taking your helicopter to the edge of the safe operating envelope. Therefore, if you are ever in doubt about the outcome of the maneuver, you should abort the mission entirely or wait for more favorable conditions. 
 

RECONNAISSANCE PROCEDURES
Anytime you are planning to land or takeoff at an unfamiliar site, you should gather as much information as you can about the area. Reconnaissance techniques are ways of gathering this information.
HIGH RECONNAISSANCE
The purpose of a high reconnaissance is to determine the wind direction and speed, a point for touchdown, the suitability of the landing area, the approach and departure axes, obstacles and their effect on wind patterns, and the most suitable flight paths into and out of the area. When conducting a high reconnaissance, give particular consideration to forced landing areas in case of an emergency.
Altitude, airspeed, and flight pattern for a high reconnaissance are governed by wind and terrain features. You must strike a balance between a reconnaissance conducted too high and one too low. It should not be flown so low that you have to divide your attention between studying the area and avoiding obstructions to flight. A high reconnaissance should be flown at an altitude of 300 to 500 feet above the surface. A general rule to follow is to ensure that sufficient altitude is available at all times to land into the wind in case of engine failure. In addition, a 45° angle of observation generally allows the best estimate of the height of barriers, the presence of obstacles, the size of the area, and the slope of the terrain. Always maintain safe altitudes and airspeeds, and keep a forced landing area within reach whenever possible.
LOW RECONNAISSANCE
A low reconnaissance is accomplished during the approach to the landing area. When flying the approach, verify what was observed in the high reconnaissance, and check for anything new that may have been missed at a higher altitude, such as wires, slopes, and small crevices. If everything is alright, you can complete the approach to a landing. However, you must make the decision to land or go-around before effective translational lift is lost.